5 Helpful Gifts You Can Give To A Prisoner

Time in prison can be a lonely and difficult experience, making support from family and friends incredibly valuable. A thoughtful gift can boost a prisoner’s morale and help maintain a connection with the outside world. However prison rules around what can be sent are strict, and not all items are permitted. Before sending anything, it’s essential to check the specific rules and regulations of the prison where your loved one is held.

Many prisons allow certain items like books, personal letters, and commissary funds, while others have restrictions on clothing, personal hygiene products, and even electronics. To help you navigate this, we’ve put together a list of five gifts that are commonly allowed in prisons and can make a significant difference to someone serving a sentence.

🎁 1. Money for their prison account

Why it's helpful:
Sending money directly to their prison account is one of the most useful things you can do. It gives your loved one the freedom to buy what they need from the prison canteen, such as snacks, phone credit, toiletries, or writing materials.

How to do it:
You can send money online using the GOV.UK Send Money to Someone in Prison service. You’ll need their name, prisoner number, and the name of the prison.

💡 Tip:
Include a short message when you let them know you’ve sent it—it adds a personal touch to a practical gift.

📖 2. Books and magazines

Why it's helpful:
Reading helps prisoners escape the routine of prison life, keeps their minds active, and supports mental health. Many prisoners say receiving books or a magazine subscription is one of the best things someone can do for them.

How to do it:
You can’t send books directly yourself, but you can order them through approved suppliers like:
- Amazon (sent directly from their warehouse)
- WHSmith or Waterstones (if the prison allows)
- Specialist services like Prison Reading Groups or Give a Book

Make sure to check with the prison before ordering—some only allow new books and have restrictions on the number.

📚 Good picks:
Self-help books, puzzle books, novels, and hobby-related reads.

Letters, photos & artwork

Why it's helpful:
There’s nothing more personal or meaningful than a handwritten letter or a printed photo from home. These small touches help prisoners feel connected and less alone.

What you can send:
Handwritten or typed lettersPrinted photos (not Polaroids or framed)Children’s drawings or schoolworkGreeting cards (without embellishments like glitter or stickers)

Things to remember:Use plain paper and envelopesDon’t include anything glued or stapledAvoid any material that could be considered inappropriate

✉️ Tip:
Include encouraging messages or conversation starters—it makes writing back easier for them too.

🎧 4. Pre-approved items through the incentive scheme

Why it's helpful:
Once a prisoner reaches a certain level on the Incentives and Earned Privileges (IEP) scheme, they may be allowed to receive additional items like:
- Basic clothing (non-branded)
- Toiletries (from approved suppliers)
- CDs (if they have a CD player)
- Stationery or art supplies

These items must be sent through approved retailers and pre-approved by the prison. Check your loved one’s IEP status first to see what they’re allowed to have.

📦 Tip:
Some charities and services also offer gift packs during the holidays—ask the prison if they’re participating.

☎️ 5. Help with cheaper phone calls

Why it's helpful:
Phone contact is a lifeline for prisoners but calling a mobile from prison can be shockingly expensive. One of the kindest gifts you can give is helping them stay in touch without breaking the bank.

How to do it:
- Set up a virtual landline with a service like Prison Call
- Your loved one dials a local number, which connects to your mobileIt’s cheaper for them—and easier for you to pick up anytime

📱 Bonus:
Our customers save up to 75% on call costs and enjoy longer, more meaningful conversations.

Banned items and incentive levels

While these gifts can provide comfort, relief, and distraction, it’s essential to be aware of the restrictions in place for inmates. Every prison has its own rules about what is allowed, and these rules can differ significantly depending on the inmate’s incentive level, security risk, and the specific facility. Banned items generally include anything that could be considered dangerous, such as sharp objects, aerosol cans, or anything that could be used as a weapon.

Additionally, some items are prohibited because they could disrupt prison order or present health and safety risks, such as certain foods or electronics. Drugs and alcohol are, of course, strictly forbidden, but even over-the-counter medications or supplements may not be allowed. It’s also worth noting that certain gifts, such as clothing or footwear, may only be allowed for prisoners on higher incentive levels, who have earned privileges through good behavior. Always check with the prison for the most current policies and ask to see their incentive and privilege level guidelines to ensure your gift can be accepted.

Whether it’s sending money, a book, or simply a heartfelt letter, giving a gift to someone in prison can make a big difference to their wellbeing and mental health. These small acts of kindness are powerful reminders that they are not forgotten, and that they have people on the outside rooting for them.

Before you send anything, always check the rules at their prison, as what’s allowed can vary.